POUGHKEEPSIE – A series of lawsuits by individuals determined to block development on the site of the Pelton Manor in Poughkeepsie received the final ruling from Judge Maria Rosa on Friday; the developers can move forward with their plans to construct apartments and a community center. The case had all been decided in favor of the opposition in April 2023, when a judge discovered that project opponent Ken Stier conducted “clandestine” operations attempting to influence a judge. The case was reopened and reargued, with the developers finally winning the lawsuit.
The developers, Pelton Partners LLC , plan to construct an arts center in the mansion and build six buildings that will contain both commercial spaces and apartments. In total, 39 multi-family units will be distributed among the six buildings on the 2.5-acre parcel where the dilapidated Pelton Manor is located on North Clover Street. Pelton Partners LLC has been trying to move this project forward since acquiring the property in 2015.
Former City Mayor Marc Nelson was the Poughkeepsie City Administrator when the project was bogged down in litigation. On hearing of the decision on Friday, Nelson told Mid-Hudson News that “The court’s well-reasoned decision should be celebrated by everyone who genuinely wants to see the Pelton Mansion restored and returned to its rightful place in service to the community.” He said the outcome “is now all but assured, thanks to the outstanding work of Corporation Counsel Rebecca Valk whose integrity and grit serve the city well each and every day.”
Ken Stenger, the attorney representing the developers was confident that construction would begin soon. This is a huge victory for my client and the people of the City of Poughkeepsie. No longer will the use of the Pelton property be held hostage by those who wish to maintain it as a personal museum.” Stenger took time to revisit the contentious meeting of the city’s Historic District Landmark Preservation Commission (HDLPC). “I would offer special thanks and recognition to Chairman Tim McQueen, and the members of the current HDLPC who, on April 13, 2023, faced down the mob and voted for the settlement which the rule of law has now vindicated.”
